problem

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A matter or situation seen as harmful, difficult, or needing to be dealt with and solved.

   Grammar: Takes a plural: one problem, many problems. Often followed by with or of: the problem with the plan.

   Patterns

   • a problem with something
   • solve a problem
   • cause a problem
   • a serious/major problem

   The main problem is that the bridge closes at night.

   We finally solved the heating problem before winter.

   Lack of sleep can cause problems at work.

2. 2nouncountable

   An exercise in mathematics or science that asks for a calculated or reasoned answer.

   Grammar: Also countable; common in school phrases such as word problem or math problem.

   Patterns

   • a math problem
   • a word problem
   • work out a problem

   For homework, do the first five problems on page 40.

   The test had one difficult word problem about train speeds.

Word forms

Common combinations

solve a problem

Engineers solved the problem by widening the drain.

a serious problem

Dirty water is a serious problem in the camp.

problem with something

The problem with the schedule is the late bus.

cause a problem

A dead phone battery can cause problems on a long trip.

word problem

Draw a picture to help with the word problem.

Synonyms and how they differ

issue

An issue is a topic or point that people discuss; a problem usually needs action or repair.

difficulty

Difficulty stresses how hard something is, while problem can be a specific thing that is wrong.

challenge

Challenge sounds more positive, like a test that may improve skill; problem implies something is wrong or risky.

trouble

Trouble is often uncountable and broader; problem is usually one clear thing to fix.

Opposites

Word family

problematic adjective

Causing difficulty or doubt; full of problems.

Commonly confused: problem or question?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “problem”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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